Operation Charnwood was an English-Canadian offensive that took place from 8 to July 9, 1944, during the famous Battle of Normandy. The operation was meant to take the city of Caen that was occupied by German troops, which was a major Allied objective during the first days of Operation Overlord. The British and Canadians were progressing on a broad front and at dusk on July 9 they had conquered Caen to the river Orne and Odon.

The night before the offensive began, Lancasters and Halifax aircraft of the RAF dropped over 2000ton of bombs on the city. The city was almost reduced to rubble. Units of the German 21th Panzer Division were also involved in these fights.

The unit, consisting of veterans and young recruits, waiting anxiously. The old timers try to reassure the young men, Grenadier Gehring who is the 2nd MG schutze is trying to ease his nerves by thinking about home.

They bring their MG's in position, find the right line of fire and make improvements where necessary. The supply'ers with lots of ammunition around their necks, a spare barrel and additional ammo boxes in hand, have a tough task ahead.

After the last shots are fired, the rest of the 21st Panzer Division begin to regroup in a nearby French village. The battle was heavy and countless young people killed, Its clear for them that the war will not be over soon.

wow! Great photographs. Yo are lucky- we never get permission to blow up a city so the reenactments look better. How did the residents of Caen react when they found out you were blowing them up to do photographs?

Seriously, great job. Wish I was there with you to experience fighting in rubble..Patrick

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